Coca-Cola Mile a prelude to bigger prizes
The Coca-Cola Invitational Mile for the second year pits foreign-bred horses against the locals.
Despite the lack of imported stock (three) this year’s edition sees the long-awaited return of Derby winner Seeking My Dream. Seeking My Dream faces formidable foes in stablemate and peer Ali Baba and Fortuneonehudred. The race receives added significance and allure with the participation of claimer Force De Jour. Some oomph has been taken out of the race with the non-appearance of top campaigner, Uppa Tune and his yard mate, Pete’swildone.
The Coca-Cola Mile is the perfect prep race for what is to come in December, the lucrative Diamond Mile.
The Complete Racing Guide looks at the runners in the Coca-Cola Invitational Mile.
SEEKING MY DREAM – Top money spinner for 2015 after victory in the Derby, Seeking My Dream lost the St Leger despite a gallant effort. Now he returns with the stable jock in tow over a distance he will relish. Seems to like coming off a break and based on exercise reports, Seeking My Dream is doing quite well. A horse with obvious class but just, only just, may need a competitive run to really get going and this is a tough assignment. Maybe this is a run for the December engagement.
FORTUNEONEHUNDRED – Tough gelding who in recent times has found his strength. Fortuneonehundred has been running with renewed vigour as evidenced by his wins in the Seek Trophy and the St Cecelia. If there is one chink in his armour, it is the ability to effectively get one mile. Will make the pace very hot, and catch him if you can.
PRINCESS SHINE – Seems to relish running at the top level and is famous for her late rattle. Princess Shine will definitely be coming off the pace as in this same race last year. Watch her, as trainer Fitzroy Glispie is a shrewd conditioner.
BIGBROWNGREYHOPE – Will try his best and there is always hope.
FORCE DE JOUR – By far the top claimer in the land who has scored six consecutive wins so far this season, but has a win on September 12 in Overnight Allowance. Force De Jour seems to prefer coming down the five straight chute instead of going around the turns, and going a mile against these might just be asking too much.
PHINEAS – Many were surprised to see Phineas in this race instead of the Sprint. Does have capabilities to win but will have to run out of his skin.
ALI BABA – Has acquitted himself well in the top bracket after performing with distinction in the Classics. The journey of a mile is perfect for Ali Baba’s running style and stamina considerations, but there is concern with him allowing weight to a seasoned runner like Timeforarms and prevailing. Maybe Ali Baba’s class will prevails but he has to be at his peak.
TIMEFORARMS – Another of those old-timers who, despite a decline in form in his last two races, has the credentials to win here. Put in his place by Ali Baba on October 3, but then he shouldered 123 lbs compared with Ali Baba carrying 116 lbs. Has a really good chance of landing the major share of the purse.
SCOOP JORDYNE – Should find these too hot to handle.
